Deputy Prime Minister Novak shared his vision for the country till 2030 in an open dialogue at the National Centre RUSSIA

---

On December 11, Alexander Novak, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation overseeing the national development goal "Sustainable and Dynamic Economy," took part in the series of open dialogues "100 Questions About the Future of Russia" at the National Centre RUSSIA.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that in recent years, the Russian Federation's economy has demonstrated steady growth, with its development rates significantly surpassing the global average despite sanctions pressure, the closure of export markets, disrupted logistics chains, and other challenges. According to Alexander Novak, the economic growth from 2020 to 2024 is expected to reach approximately 12.7%.

"Last year, growth reached 3.6%, and this year we expect it to be at the level of 3.9%. This is significantly higher than the global average growth rates and several times greater than the growth rates of developed countries. Last year, we observed investment growth at the level of 9.8%, and for the first nine months of this year, it was 8.6%. These are also very high growth rates. Speaking about plans until 2027, we anticipate, in accordance with the forecast for the socio-economic development of our country, an increase in gross domestic product of about 13%," said the Deputy Prime Minister. 

He also mentioned some of the key indicators for national goals that need to be achieved, emphasizing that joint efforts will be required.

"This is not just about words but specific indicators. For example, in terms of life expectancy, by 2030, we must reach an average of 78 years, and by 2036, 81 years. In the economy, exports, and other areas, there are also specific targets. Once again, I emphasize that these are the strategic goals we will achieve together," stated Alexander Novak.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that national projects will be implemented taking into account the specifics of regional development. Currently, the country is already carrying out more than 30 separate programs aimed at regional development.

"This work is specifically aimed at the development of regions, and each of them will actively participate in achieving national goals. To account for the specifics of regional development, there are special methodologies for the allocation of funds and subsidies, considering budgetary capacity, the current state of transport and other infrastructure. Naturally, the development of regions will also take into account the structure of their economies," said Alexander Novak. 

Many questions were related to the development of small and medium-sized businesses. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that this economic sector is of great importance for the country. Therefore, in every constituent entity of the Russian Federation, centres for supporting this type of business are being established.

"Last year, the share of small and medium-sized businesses in our country's total GDP was 21%. The number of small enterprises is growing significantly. According to statistics, there are currently 6.4 million enterprises in the country employing about 19 million people, not including self-employed individuals, who number approximately another 11 million. Therefore, 25 million people are engaged in small and medium-sized businesses out of 73 million working citizens — practically one-third. This is a large sector, and its support and development are very important for our country," stressed Alexander Novak.

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the importance of training qualified personnel to maintain the economic balance. According to him, it is necessary for educational institutions to work directly with businesses to achieve this goal.

"Ten to fifteen years ago, such contact did not exist, but in recent years, it has been developing. Almost every leading educational institution now has departments of major industry companies. In addition, the 'Professionality' program is being implemented, ensuring the training of specialists specifically needed for our economy," noted Alexander Novak. 

He also emphasized that to accelerate economic growth and increase labor productivity, it is essential to focus not only on implementing standard solutions but also on modern technologies. "These include technologies related to artificial intelligence, big data, data processing, automated control systems, and robotics. All of this will provide a strong additional effect. There are fundamental measures, but there are also technological ones that can multiply the impact many times over," Alexander Novak stated confidently.

The open dialogue also addressed credit policies and the selection of financial instruments for small and medium-sized enterprises, the development of creative industries, challenges faced by small tech companies, the role of domestic tourism in the country's economy, and other topics. Concluding the meeting, Alexander Novak shared his vision of Russia in 2030.

"This is a country that does not depend on external shocks and factors, possesses technological sovereignty, and has the capacity for independent development. It is also a unique country because, without question, we have our own culture, history, and nature, and we will undoubtedly preserve our identity. In other words, the key characteristics of Russia in 2030 can be summarized with the letter ‘S’ — strong, sovereign, unique ("samobytnaya" in Russian, - editor’s note), and self-sufficient," concluded Alexander Novak.

The event concluded with the award ceremony for the National Prize "Leaders of Investment Development — 2024," established in 2023 by the Non-Profit Organization "National Association of Investment and Development Agencies." This year, 246 applications were submitted across 12 categories, with the jury analyzing 85 investment portals and 85 regional investment maps. The primary goals of the Prize are to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of regional organizations specializing in investor relations (development agencies) by identifying, selecting, and describing best practices, as well as to provide non-financial recognition for regional investment teams, leaders, and employees of development agencies.

"I would like to wish you and your teams continued success in this active work, to be leaders and move forward. The President has set ambitious goals for the development of the economy and attracting investments, so let’s move forward together and tackle these goals to make our economy competitive and effective," Alexander Novak addressed the winners of the Prize. 

The open dialogues "100 Questions About the Future of Russia" at the National Centre RUSSIA are a series of meetings with representatives of federal executive bodies of the Russian Federation, regional speakers, members of the business community, and public organizations, as well as experts from various industries. Each meeting focuses on one of the national development goals set by Presidential Decree of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

Questions about the country’s future can be submitted through a special section on the National Centre RUSSIA website. Some answers will be addressed live on air. Follow the broadcasts on the website.

The National Centre RUSSIA was established by order of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA EXPO and to showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens on a permanent basis. Federal government agencies, state companies, corporations, and regions take part in the Centre’s work.

The National Centre RUSSIA is located at 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow. The Centre is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day except Monday.